Cochin International Airport is entering a new phase of its journey with the launch of CIAL 2.0, a ₹200-crore project aimed at digitally transforming its operations.
The initiative will be inaugurated on May 19, 2025, at 5 PM, by Kerala Chief Minister and CIAL Chairman, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, at the CIAL Trade Fair & Exhibition Centre.
The focus is clear: make flying smarter, safer, and more seamless, while future-proofing one of India’s most talked-about airports.
At the heart of this overhaul is a new Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC)—the first full-fledged on-premises digital security hub of its kind in any Indian airport.
Built in collaboration with CDAC, the facility will run around the clock, scanning for threats in real-time, responding swiftly to cyberattacks, and providing a secure backbone for CIAL’s expanding tech ecosystem.
With the aviation industry facing growing risks from hackers, malware, and ransomware, CDOC could mark a new chapter in airport cybersecurity, not just for CIAL but across the country.
Passengers passing through the airport can expect some noticeable changes, especially when it comes to security. Full-body scanners, designed to meet international standards, will now offer contactless and non-intrusive screening. These machines aim to cut down on queues without compromising on thoroughness.
Meanwhile, the introduction of an Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) is expected to make security checks quicker and more efficient by removing the hassle of manually handling security trays.
The airport is also deploying over 4,000 AI-enabled surveillance cameras across terminal interiors, airside operations, and high-security zones. These aren’t just any CCTV setups—powered by deep learning, the system is designed to analyse behaviour, detect unusual activity in real-time, and improve situational awareness.
With this network active 24/7, airport officials believe it could significantly strengthen both passenger safety and operational control.
Beyond what passengers see, CIAL is rebuilding its digital foundation. Core systems like the Airport Operational Database (AODB), Flight Information Display System (FIDS), and the flight announcement system are being revamped. One of the more practical upgrades is the adoption of Common Use Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS), which allows airlines to share check-in counters, giving more flexibility and reducing bottlenecks.
Behind the scenes, a next-generation data centre powered by Hyper-Converged Infrastructure is being installed to ensure secure, scalable, and fast operations.
Coinciding with the CIAL 2.0 launch is the Aero Digital Summit, taking place at the same venue from 2.30 PM to 8.30 PM. The event will feature live demonstrations of the new infrastructure, along with displays of robotic dogs, mini humanoids, and virtual reality experiences.
The summit will wrap up with a panel discussion on “The Future of Technology & Innovation in Airports”, inviting ideas and insights from across the tech and aviation world.